Xi'an Aircraft International to boost production of indigenous passenger planes

The Shenzhen-listed Xi'an Aircraft International Corp, a subsidiary of Xi'an Aircraft Industry Group under China Aviation Industry Corporation I (AVIC I), has got a nod from the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) for its expansion project with an annual output of 30 Modem Ark 60 (MA60) airplanes.

The MA60 airplane, a twin turbo-prop aircraft, is designed mainly for commuter service. It has a maximum take-off weight of 21,800 kg and a maximum seating capacity of 60 passengers.

Just last month, the Okair Aviation Corporation, China's first non-state-owned aviation company, signed a contract with the Xi'an Aircraft Industry and AVICI's International Lease Co to rent and purchase 10 MA60s worth RMB 1.25 billion ($164.7 million). So far, Xi'an Aircraft International has received orders for about 50 MA60s, 36 of which are from international buyers.